Fijian lawmakers made strides toward amending the 2013 Constitution as four members from various groups, Sanjay Kirpal, Shalen Kumar, Sachida Nand, and Rinesh Sharma, supported the amendment initiative during a recent vote. Out of 55 parliamentary members, 41 voted in favor of the amendment, while 13 opposed it, and one member abstained.
Notably, the voting against the amendment included several prominent figures such as Praveen Bala and Faiyaz Koya. The amendment seeks to revise the constitution in line with contemporary governance demands and reflects the need for inclusivity and representation of Fiji’s diverse populace.
Similar developments have been noted in recent months, as Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has consistently highlighted the challenges in securing a three-quarters majority, which requires 42 votes. His government, bolstered by the inclusion of the Group of Nine in Parliament, holds nearly 70 percent support but remains four votes short of the threshold needed for constitutional amendments.
Rabuka emphasizes the importance of engaging with both the opposition, known as the Group of 16, and the general public to foster a constitutional framework that resonates with the aspirations of all Fijians. This ongoing dialogue is seen as a hopeful opportunity for constructive engagement that may lead to a more unified and democratic society.
As Fiji navigates the complexities of this amendment process, the potential for a democratic framework that enhances citizen participation and aligns with the nation’s multi-ethnic makeup represents a promising path forward for the nation’s governance. Ensuring that all voices are acknowledged and included could pave the way for a brighter and more inclusive future for Fiji.
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